Crypto foundations
The idea
A blockchain is a shared record updated under a network's rules. Transactions are grouped and linked so participants can verify history. The record's transparency does not guarantee that an asset has value, that its issuer is honest or that its software is safe. Networks differ in governance and technical trade-offs.
A worked example
A transaction can be visible on a block explorer while the recipient is still a scammer. Verifying inclusion is different from verifying a business claim.
Try it yourself
Inspect a public block explorer without connecting a wallet. Identify a block, transaction hash and confirmation count.
A mistake to avoid
Using the word decentralized as proof that every part of a service has no controlling party.